Cignal battled back after a sluggish start to secure a four-set victory against Petro Gazz, with a score of 18-25, 25-18, 25-21, 25-22 in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference on Tuesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The Angels threatened to force a fifth set by taking a 16-12 lead, courtesy of a quick attack from Des Clemente. However, the HD Spikers, led by Jovelyn Gonzaga, responded with a five-point run to regain the lead.
The teams exchanged points from that point on, but Ces Molina and Chin Basas made crucial contributions to help Cignal secure an early lead in Pool B, alongside F2 Logistics, both with identical 1-0 records.
“Simple lang naman yung niremind ko sa kanila. Kailangan lang ma-execute namin nang maayos yung pinaghandaan namin,” said HD Spikers head coach Shaq delos Santos.
Ces Molina delivered an impressive performance, scoring 22 points with 21 successful attacks. Meanwhile, the returning Jovelyn Gonzaga recorded 13 points, 20 excellent digs, and six excellent receptions for Cignal.
Meanwhile, Rose Doria contributed 12 points with seven attacks, three aces, and two blocks, while Riri Meneses added 11 points. Rookie Vanie Gandler made an impact with eight points.
Gel Cayuna played a vital role with 22 excellent sets, while Anngela Nunag registered 17 digs and 13 receptions.
“Kung paano kami nag-prepare sa mga one and a half months ng aming training, at siyempre si Jov [Gonzaga] na medyo late na rin pumasok… Pero alam naman niya yung sistema, kaya kami nag-usap at nagplano,” he added.
On the other hand, the Angels missed the services of MJ Phillips. They were led by Grethcel Soltones and Jonah Sabete, scoring 22 and 21 points, respectively.
Cignal’s next match will be against F2 Logistics on Saturday at 6:00 PM. Meanwhile, Petro Gazz aims to bounce back against Foton on Thursday at 6:30 PM. Both games are at the same venue.
